UTI in Women: 5 Important Things to Remember About Sex During a Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the most common health issues among women, often caused by unhygienic toilet use, poor diet, or bacterial growth in the urinary tract. While it can be treated with timely medical care, the condition often raises an important question: Is it safe for women to have sex during a UTI?

To address this concern, we spoke with Dr. Rita Bakshi, senior gynecologist and co-founder of RISAA IVF. She shared five crucial points every woman should keep in mind about sexual activity during a UTI.

What Exactly Is UTI in Women?

A UTI occurs when bacteria infect the urinary tract, leading to symptoms such as a burning sensation while urinating, frequent urge to urinate, abdominal discomfort, and sometimes blood in urine. During this period, the body is already fighting off infection, and sexual activity can worsen the condition. Friction during intercourse may intensify pain and irritation, and bacteria can spread more easily, delaying recovery.

1. Avoid Sex Until You’re Fully Recovered

The most important advice is to refrain from sexual activity while suffering from UTI. Engaging in intercourse during this time not only increases discomfort but also prolongs healing and raises the risk of recurring infections. Waiting until the course of treatment is complete and symptoms have completely subsided is the safest approach.

2. Always Use Protection if Intimacy Is Unavoidable

If, for any reason, sex cannot be avoided, using a condom is non-negotiable. Protection helps reduce the transfer of bacteria and lowers the risk of your partner contracting an infection. Since UTIs can sometimes worsen with unprotected intercourse, condoms act as an essential barrier to safeguard both partners’ health.

3. Maintain Proper Hygiene Before and After Sex

Hygiene plays a critical role in managing UTIs. Women should thoroughly wash the genital area before and after intercourse with clean water or a doctor-recommended intimate wash. Partners must also ensure cleanliness to reduce bacterial exposure. Proper hygiene minimizes the chances of worsening the infection or spreading it again.

4. Listen to Your Body’s Signals

Ignoring pain or discomfort during sex can be dangerous. If you experience burning, bleeding, or severe irritation, stop immediately and consult a doctor. These symptoms may indicate worsening infection, allergic reaction, or other underlying health problems that require medical attention. Never normalize discomfort—it is your body’s way of warning you.

5. Complete the Full Course of Medication

UTI treatment usually involves antibiotics, but many women make the mistake of stopping medication once symptoms improve. Dr. Bakshi warns that incomplete treatment can leave some bacteria alive, making them resistant to antibiotics. This not only causes repeated infections but also makes future treatment more difficult. Always follow your doctor’s prescription and complete the full course of medicines.

Key Takeaway

Having sex during a UTI is not advisable, as it can increase pain, spread bacteria, and prolong recovery. The best approach is to avoid intercourse until the infection has completely healed, maintain proper hygiene, use protection when necessary, and never skip prescribed medication.

Every woman’s body reacts differently, so timely consultation with a gynecologist is essential. By taking the right precautions, you can recover faster and protect both your health and your relationship.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.